9th & 10th January 2008

This course aims to equip participants with the essential skills and knowledge to conduct a range of substance misuse assessments (including risk assessment) by employing a range of tried-and-tested interviewing skills and techniques. The course will help participants to develop understanding and identify the skills required to effectively plan to meet the needs of service users. Issues of good practice

The module has been designed to meet the needs of workers who are involved in carrying out substance misuse assessments and planning of service in order to meet the expressed needs and circumstances of individuals, and for those involved in the various referral routes through the substance misuse treatment system.

Learning Objectives –

• Demonstrate knowledge of undertaking effective need assessments (including risk assessment) by employing a range of interviewing skills and techniques
• Understand and discuss common problems in conducting assessments and developing care plans
• Identify skills in developing a therapeutic relationship to help engage clients in the assessment and care planning processes
• Develop a comprehensive care plan based on the identified needs of clients
• Understand and discuss the need for client involvement in the care planning process
• Understand and discuss the importance of multi-agency working, information sharing and communication throughout the assessment and care planning processes

The course provides underpinning knowledge for the acquisition of SVQ Skill Sets [Level 3] based on the Drugs and Alcohol National Occupational Standards [DANOS] competencies.